The National Stone, Sand and Gravel Association (NSSGA) has reported that advocacy efforts to build opposition to the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule are having an effect on lawmakers. NSSGA members have been meeting with their federal elected officials and have reported that at least one key senator may be reconsidering his support for the rule.
NSSGA’s Environmental Committee held a meeting on 17 September to discuss a host of industry concerns, not least that for operators in 37 states not covered by a recent court injunction, the rule is already in effect. Committee Chair Joel Nickel advised committee members to be careful and to review operations in light of the new rule.
Pam Whitted, NSSGA Senior Vice President of Legislative and Regulative Affairs, commented: “We think the courts will ultimately agree with NSSGA that the rule is legal overreach by EPA. However, we need Congress to act now so that members have certainty to run their businesses.”
The NSSGA is urging members to contact their Senators and ask them to support S. 1140, the Federal Water Quality Protection Act.
Adapted from press release by Katherine Guenioui